Niger: One dead as vigilantes clash with bandits in Wamba community

Wamba community in Mariga Local Government Area of Niger State was reportedly thrown into tension on Sunday as local vigilantes engaged a large gang of armed bandits in a fierce gun battle.

It was gathered that the confrontation started when vigilante operatives along the Galma–Wamba corridor noticed the movement of about 65 bandits on motorcycles heading toward the town.

Sensing danger, the operatives immediately raised the alarm and mobilised additional forces to block the approaching attackers.

Sources told our correspondent that the bandits attempted a coordinated assault by splitting into three groups to encircle the community.

However, their plan was foiled by the combined response of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) and vigilante members, leading to prolonged exchanges of gunfire.

Several of the assailants were reportedly killed during the clash, forcing the remaining fighters to flee into the surrounding bushes and forests.

Eyewitnesses said that despite the successful defence, the community recorded casualties, with one vigilante member dying after exhausting his ammunition while trying to retreat from the frontline.

“He initially escaped but later slumped and died, and another operative was shot and is currently receiving medical treatment,” they stated.

Confirming the development, the Chairman of Mariga Local Government Council, Hon. Aliyu Bagga Muhammad, described the fallen operative as a hero who paid the ultimate price defending his people.

“We lost one brave man, and another who was shot is undergoing treatment. We sympathise deeply with the family and the entire vigilante group,” Muhammad said.

He praised the resilience of the local security outfit and urged residents to continue cooperating with authorities to keep criminal elements at bay.

Niger: One dead as vigilantes clash with bandits in Wamba community